Cash is the preferred holiday bonus for 37 percent of employees and job seekers, according to a poll released by Express Employment Professionals. Aother poll finds 34 percent of business leaders will provide those cash holiday bonuses.

“Showing appreciation is investing in your employees,” said Express Employment CEO Bob Funk. “It improves morale and increases loyalty. It’s good for business. So even if you’re a business that’s struggling through difficult economic times, be sure to say thank you. Even the simplest gesture can go a long way and make the holiday season that much brighter for the people who make your business possible.”

Employees and job seekers were asked, “How do you wish your company showed appreciation to employees?” Responses included:

• Cash bonus: 27 percent
• Pay raises: 13 percent
• Days off or shortened holiday hours: 9 percent
• Gift cards: 5 percent
• Gift items other than money: 1 percent
• Holiday party: 1 percent
• Other: 1 percent
• A combination of the above: 35 percent

In a separate poll, business leaders were similarly asked, “What type of holiday bonus will you give your employees this year?” Responses included:

• Cash: 34 percent
• We will not give holiday bonuses: 21 percent
• Gift cards: 12 percent
• Other: 7 percent
• Extra days off: 3 percent
• Tangible gifts: 3 percent
• A combination of the above: 19 percent

The online polls included 400 business leaders and 230 individuals who identify as “job seekers and those new to the career world.”